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Our Philosophy

At Manly Community Kindergarten we acknowledge that many people contribute to running a successful Kindergarten including families, staff and the wider community. We believe in working together with our community to provide a kindergarten where we value and respect the rights of the child, and create an environment where children feel safe, nurtured and cared for.

We value the diversity of our local community and strongly believe all children should be treated with dignity and respect, and we aim to uphold an inclusive curriculum. We recognise the importance of building strong connections with our families and recognise families as children’s first educators. We acknowledge the original owners of the land by honouring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures in a respectful manner, and this is reflected in our curriculum.

Children must be taught how to think, not what to think. – Margaret Mead

As staff, we aim to provide a quality educational program that promotes learning and well-being in a safe and positive environment. We believe in learning through play by promoting inquiry, being spontaneous, creating opportunities where children can explore and build on their prior knowledge and encouraging children to take considered risks and approach challenges with confidence. We encourage children to be independent and to work collaboratively with their peers. Children grow and understand that they are connected to others and to the community and world around them.

At Manly Community Kindergarten, we believe in sustainable practices, caring for our environment and our future. Our natural environment includes places for children to grow and appreciate animal life.

Goals of the centre

For the management committee and educator team to be continuously considering ways to improve the kindergarten for the benefit of children and families. This includes considering ways to improve teaching and learning methods, strengthening relationships and having high expectations.

To encourage development of each child’s self esteem, independent thinking and consideration of others.

To encourage children’s development in language, cognition, social skills, physical skills and emotional growth.

To offer children opportunities for self expression in a variety of ways (music/movement, drama, language experiences, art).

To protect and promote each child’s health and safety.

To encourage and facilitate literacy and numeracy understandings.

To acknowledge and respect differences between families and to welcome their involvement in the centre.